The best Smart TV boxes with 4K UHD support for 2018-2019

“Oh, if only there was a country where you don’t have to do anything,” dreamed the cartoon character Nehochukha, “Just play and watch TV.” And who among us has not dreamed of the same thing? And so we finally got our dream home. Look around, because we are surrounded by smart technology! Who would have thought 15 years ago that the TV would learn to predict our desires, and its almost human “brain” would fit in a box the size of a palm!

If your TV box hasn't wised up yet, a special attachment will teach him some sense. And F1comp will help you figure out how to choose it. So, in today's review - 9 of the best smart TV set-top boxes that support 4K UHD resolution. The rating includes models that are relevant at the end of 2021 – beginning of 2021.

How to choose a Smart TV set-top box

A smart TV set-top box (media player or Smart TV box) is a small computer device with its own processor, memory, video, network adapter, operating system and input-output interfaces, the monitor of which is a TV, and the keyboard and mouse are a remote control. To put it simply, this is a “box with iron brains” that can turn an ordinary TV into a multimedia PC. More precisely, make it an analogue of Smart TV, but at much lower costs.

In terms of device type, set-top boxes are closest to smartphones and tablets. They are equipped with similar processors (more precisely, SoC - systems on a chip) and comparable amounts of memory. Most of them run Android OS. This means that when choosing a set-top box, you should pay attention to the same parameters as when choosing a mobile phone. With some differences.

Processor (SoC)

The processor (chipset or SoC) is the “heart and brain” of the media player. The performance and technologies that developers implement in their products depend on it. In particular, support for certain methods of encoding/decoding audiovisual information, graphics quality, memory speed, availability and version of HDR, speed of Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB, etc. In short, everything that directly or indirectly affects the transmission and playback of multimedia content.

The majority of set-top boxes are equipped with Amlogic and Rockchip chipsets. The first ones are more technologically advanced. Their strong point is a beautiful picture and better recreation of visual effects compared to Rockchip. However, Amlojiks are prone to overheating and are more expensive.

Rockchip processors, on the contrary, do not produce such a spectacular image, but they use energy sparingly and hardly heat up. The consoles equipped with them are more affordable.

When choosing a media player, compare the chipset parameters with the capabilities of your TV. If the TV is not a top model, there is no need to overpay for a powerful processor that will not reveal all its capabilities. And vice versa: For a TV with UHD or UHD HDR (4k premium) screen resolution, it is better not to skimp on the set-top box.

For comfortable viewing of high-quality content on a 4k TV, the chipset must support the following technologies in hardware:

HDR (High Dynamic Range Colors).
H.264 video encoding and H.264 and H265 decoding.
Dolby Digital and DTR audio standards.
HDMI 2.0 interface.

In processors, support for 4k resolution is implemented in the S9 family and partially in the S8. Models:

S812
S905, S905X, S905X, S905D, S905W, S905Z
S912

Adding the suffix “H” to the processor name indicates that it has a Dolby Digital and DTR license.

Amlogic S812 and the entire S905 series support 4k more formally than in reality. Their destiny is HD and Full HD. True Ultra HD is implemented only in the S912.

According to the specifications, 4k resolution is supported by the following models of the 32xx and 33xx line:

RK3229
RK3288
RK3328
RK3368
RK3399

But actual support is also provided only by the older models RK3399 and RK3368.

GPU

The graphics core, the video processor of the media player, is part of the SoC, so it is not selected separately. Amlogic and Rockchip chipsets are most often equipped with Mali graphics.

Budget and mid-price models are usually equipped with Mali-450 MP/MP2/MP4/MP6/MP8 cores. The last number indicates the number of pixel processors in them - the higher it is, the higher the performance of the module. Although the Mali-450 supports high-resolution video encoding/decoding, they are no longer used in TV boxes designed for 4k.

The older SoC models have more advanced graphics: Mali-T820 MP3 (Amlogic S912) Mali-T864 (Rockchip RK3399), etc.

RAM and storage

Everything is simple here: the amount of memory – both RAM and permanent – is of paramount importance. And also the possibility of expanding the latter through removable cards and USB flash drives.

Set-top boxes designed for TV 4k must have at least 2 GB of RAM (RAM) and 8 GB of ROM (read-only memory). But for devices with such storage capacity, an SD/SDHC slot is highly desirable, since part of its space is occupied by the operating system. Otherwise, you won't even have enough space to install applications, let alone store content.

In addition to volume, manufacturers and sellers indicate the generation of RAM in the characteristics of media players. For ultra-high-definition TVs, DDR3, DDR4, DDR3L, LPDDR3 and LPDDR4 memory are relevant.

As for the ROM module, the majority of TV set-top boxes use inexpensive, energy-efficient eMMC 4.51-5.1 drives.

Net

The network interface is perhaps the second most important point after the processor that you should pay attention to. Most set-top boxes (but not all!) are capable of connecting to Wi-Fi. However, to watch videos from the Internet in good quality and without delays, a wireless connection is not comme il faut. If there is even the slightest complaint about the speed and stability of Wi-Fi, the best option is wired Ethernet 100/1000 Mbit/s.

If the radio air in your home is not very noisy from other devices and there is no way to connect the TV via cable, you can only use Wi-Fi. In this case, it is better to choose a TV box that supports the 802.11ac standard. This will allow you to switch between 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies and achieve more stable communications. Of course, provided that the access point also supports this standard.

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Some console models have Bluetooth. Pay attention to this if you are going to watch TV with wireless headphones or use other devices with the same interface.

Other Important Details

Connectors for connecting to TV. Modern TVs, like set-top boxes, support the HDMI standard, so there are usually no difficulties with connecting them. If your TV does not have this type of socket, choose a set-top box with interfaces like it. Connecting through an adapter dampens and distorts the signal, which has a bad effect on the quality of playback.
Sound. If you have a good, modern audio system, you should pay attention to support for digital multi-channel sound.
Operating system. Some official firmware of media players is a real “bottleneck” that does not allow powerful hardware to open up. To avoid buying such a “pig in a poke,” choose models from well-known brands. Their manufacturers do not forget to release software updates. In addition, it is much easier to find custom (unofficial) firmware with bug fixes and improved functionality.
The version and number of USB slots will be important if you plan to view files from flash drives and hard drives on TV.
Other interfaces - if you are going to connect devices of the corresponding type to them.
External or internal location of the power supply. It plays more of an aesthetic than a functional role.

↑ Conclusions

If you want to watch high-definition content and not deny yourself the pleasure, then choose Apple TV.
The power reserve will last for at least a couple of years, an optimal purchase for Apple lovers. Google Chromecast Ultra is several times cheaper; it is a technologically advanced and compact media player with a direct Internet cable connection. Xiaomi TV Box 3 does not lag behind its competitors and offers the buyer functionality, an impressive number of functions and 4K video playback, suitable for all purposes that are performed on Android. Invin M8S and Scishion V88 can be considered good budget options; they do an excellent job with their assigned tasks.

Budget category Smart TV Box: 2000-3500 rubles

NEXBOX A95X 1Gb+8Gb

The media player can be described as follows: a little of everything, but sparingly. The performance of this box is enough for the comfortable operation of one or two applications, and if two, then unpretentious ones. High-definition support is implemented “for show,” but you can watch movies without any problems. But playing resource-intensive games, much less streaming, will no longer be possible.

This model is definitely not suitable for expensive modern TVs with a 4k screen, but it will make an excellent pair for an “old man” with analog inputs.

Technical characteristics of NEXBOX A95X 1Gb+8Gb

Processor: Amlogic S905X, 4 cores, 2.02 GHz.
Graphics accelerator: Mali-450.
RAM: 1 Gb DDR3.
Storage: 8 Gb.
Memory card support: micro SD and micro SDHC up to 32 Gb.
Interfaces: 2xUSB 2.0 type A, 1xHDMI 2.0, analog audio-video output, Wi-Fi 802.11a/b/g/n, Ethernet 100 Mbit/s.
Video codecs: H.264, H.265, MPEG1, MPEG2, MPEG4, XviD, DivX, VC1, AVCHD.
Video formats: MP4, AVI, WMV, MKV, MOV, RMVB, RM, ISO, MPG, DAT, TS, FLV, ASF.
Audio formats: MP3, FLAC, WMA, APE, AAC, DTS, OGG, AC
Graphic files: PNG, JPEG, GIF, BMP, TIFF.
Operating system: Android TV 6.0.
Technologies and services: Internet radio, IPTV (subject to the provision of the service by the operator).
Power supply: external, 5 V.
Contents: remote control, HDMI cable.
Dimensions and weight: 98x98x11 mm, 77 g.

The strengths of the NEXBOX A95X 1Gb+8Gb set-top box, according to owners and experts: support for IPTV and memory cards, a convenient remote control and low price. She copes with tasks designed for her level with a bang.

The most significant disadvantages of the model are a very small amount of RAM, lack of Bluetooth and a tendency to overheat.

You can buy NEXBOX A95X 1Gb+8Gb in Russian stores for 2,790 rubles. On Chinese sites it’s even cheaper.

A5X Plus Mini

A5X Plus Mini is another “money-saving” solution, but for those who do not agree to be content with little. This console is ready to entertain you to the fullest. Its firmware includes an Online Media Player for watching streaming video from the Internet, an Online Cinema with support for a host of movie services, Online TV, IPTV, Torrent TV and the Kodi Entertainment Center.

The model based on the Rockchip RK3328 processor is available in 1 GB RAM / 8 GB ROM and 2 GB RAM / 16 GB ROM versions. High-resolution support is implemented in both, but, alas, you won’t be able to enjoy it to the fullest. This device is designed for TVs with an HD screen.

Specifications of A5X Plus Mini

Processor: Rockchip RK3328, 4 cores, 1.5 GHz.
Graphics accelerator: Mali-450MP.
RAM: 1/2 Gb DDR3.
Storage: 8/16 Gb.
Memory card support: micro SD.
Interfaces: 1xUSB0 type A, 1xUSB 3.0 type A, 1xHDMI 2.0, analog audio-video output, Wi-Fi 802.11a/b/g/n, Ethernet 100 Mbit/s, Bluetooth – optional.
Video codecs: H.264, H.265, MPEG1, MPEG2, MPEG4, VC1, VP6/8, 4K VP9.
Video formats: MP4, AVI, WMV, MKV, MOV, RMVB, RM, ISO, MPG, DAT, TS, FLV, ASF.
Audio formats: MP3, AAC, WAV, WMA, OGG, DDP, FLAC, APE.
Graphic files: PNG, JPEG, GIF, BMP, TIFF.
Operating system: Android TV 7.1.
Technologies and services: 3D, Miracast, DLNA, AirPlay, IPTV, Torrent TV, Online TV, pre-installed network media player and Kodi entertainment center.
Power supply: external, 5 V.
Contents: remote control, HDMI cable.
Dimensions and weight: 85x85x18 mm, 296 g.

The main advantage of this set-top box is that, being so small and inexpensive, it replaces a multimedia center. The downside is that the picture is not the most impressive (what can you do, it’s Rockchip) and the memory capacity is too small. The 1/8 GB modification is intended only for watching videos; the 2/16 GB version can also be used for gaming.

The price for A5X Plus Mini in Russian stores starts from 3,200 rubles.

Invin W95

, like previous models of TV set-top boxes, are chosen primarily for their low price. More precisely, for the optimal ratio of capabilities and price. This inconspicuous-looking box does not hide anything extraordinary. It just works, and it works well. Especially in tandem with budget TVs with low screen resolution.

4k support is implemented in this set-top box only in theory and only at the hardware level. And whether this flaw will be corrected is unknown (although this makes no sense). But the firmware is Android TV 7.1, comes with a built-in QODI entertainment center (Kodi-based build) and ready-made root rights. In addition, the device supports the connection of some 3G modems.

Like the A5X Plus Mini, the Invin W95 comes in 1/8 GB and 2/16 GB versions.

Technical characteristics of Invin W95

Processor: Amlogic S905W, 4 cores, 2.0 GHz.
Graphics accelerator: Mali-450.
RAM: 1/2 GB DDR3.
Storage: 8/16 GB.
Memory card slots: micro SD, micro SDHC, MMC (MultiMedia Card).
Interfaces: 2xUSB 2.0 type A, 1xHDMI 2.0b, analog audio-video output, SPDIF, Wi-Fi 802.11a/b/g/n, Ethernet 100/1000 Mbit/s.
Video codecs: H.264, H.265, MPEG1, MPEG2, MPEG4, XviD, DivX, VC1, AVCHD.
Video formats: AVI, WMV, MKV, MOV, RMVB, RM, ISO, VOB, MPG, DAT, TS, FLV, ASF.
Audio formats: MP3, FLAC, WMA, AC3, APE, AAC, DTS, OGG.
Graphic files: PNG, JPEG, GIF, BMP, TIFF.
Operating system: Android TV 7.1.
Technologies and services: Internet radio, QODI, root access from the factory.
Power supply: external, 5 V.
Contents: remote control, HDMI cable.
Dimensions and weight: 110x110x17 mm, 105 g.

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The advantage of Invin W95 over competitors is simplicity, functionality, optimal quality/price ratio. The main disadvantages are the lack of software support for high resolution and the tendency to overheat.

The cost of the device on the Russian market starts from 2,750 rubles.

Average category Smart TV Box: 4000-7000 rubles

MECOOL M8S PRO W

TV Box falls somewhere between budget and mid-range. It does not have the most powerful chipset, nor the fastest video card, but the developers did not spare the memory, and it is of the latest generation. And the storage is quite spacious.

The device reproduces video well on Full HD screens, and this, as can be seen from the characteristics, is its ceiling. But many people don’t need more. Otherwise, this is a stable and well-balanced device for reasonable money, suitable for both cinema and games.

Technical characteristics of MECOOL M8 S PRO W

Processor: Amlogic S905W, 4 cores, 2.0 GHz.
Graphics accelerator: Mali-450.
RAM: 2 Gb DDR4.
Storage: 16 Gb.
Memory card support: micro SD, micro SDHC.
Interfaces: 2xUSB0 type A, 1xHDMI 2.0a, analog audio-video output, Ethernet 100 Mbit/s, 802.11a/b/g/n.
Codecs: H.264, H.265, MPEG1, MPEG2, MPEG4, XviD, DivX, VC1, AVCHD.
Video formats: AVI, WMV, MKV, MOV, RMVB, RM, ISO, VOB, MPG, DAT, TS, FLV, ASF.
Audio formats: MP3, FLAC, WMA, APE, AAC, DTS, OGG, AC
Graphic files: PNG, JPEG, GIF, BMP, TIFF.
Operating system: Android TV 7.1.
Technologies: Miracast, AirPlay, Internet radio, Online video, IPTV, Torrent TV, voice search.
Power supply: external, 5 V.
Equipment: remote control with microphone, HDMI cable.
Dimensions and weight: 102x102x21 mm, 110 g.

Advantages of MECOOL M8S PRO W - average performance (good for TVs with low-resolution screens) and wide functionality. Disadvantages: frequent overheating and inconvenient placement of buttons on the remote control. However, the latter is up to anyone.

In Russian stores, a media player of this model is sold for 4,290 rubles or more.

Xiaomi Mi Box International Version

and the included remote control are designed in a minimalist style. Yes, it’s beautiful, but when the need arises to connect 2 USB devices to the set-top box, you have to scratch your head: there’s only one socket! If you want to connect your device to the network, here’s Wi-FI. What about by wire? No, come on, this is unfashionable. After all, extra connectors spoil the design!

However, in general, it’s a sin to complain about the console. The functionality it contains is very tempting: fast dual-band wireless communication, Bluetooth (via which the included remote control communicates with it), 3D, IPTV, Torrent TV, Google Cast, voice search through the microphone built into the remote control, etc. etc. In general, you can watch movies in 4k resolution and play 3D games. True, not the most demanding ones.

The lack of LAN support can be compensated for by connecting an external Ethernet adapter to the set-top box. However, some brands of network controllers are not compatible with it, so it is better to check with other users before purchasing.

Technical specifications of Xiaomi Mi Box International Version

Processor: Amlogic S905X-H, 4 cores, 2.0 GHz.
Graphics accelerator: Mali-450.
RAM: 2 Gb DDR3.
Storage: 8 Gb.
Memory card support: no.
Interfaces: 1xUSB 2.0 type A, 1xHDMI 2.0a, analog audio-video output, Bluetooth 4.1+EDR, Wi-Fi 802.11a/b/g/n/ac (MIMO antenna 1×1).
Codecs: H.264, H.265, MPEG4, VC1, HEVC Main 10, VP9 and VP9 10 bit.
Video formats: AVI, WMV, MKV, MOV, RMVB, RM.
Audio formats: MP3, FLAC, WMA, APE, AAC, DTS.
Graphic files: PNG, JPEG, GIF, BMP.
Operating system: Android TV 6.0.
Technologies and services: DLNA, Miracast, AirPlay, IPTV (subject to service provision by the operator), Torrent TV, Google Cast, Internet radio, 3D.
Power supply: external, 5.2 V.
Equipment: remote control with built-in microphone and Bluetooth interface, HDMI cable.
Dimensions and weight: 101x101x20 mm, 180 g.

Advantages of Xiaomi Mi Box International Version: power, rich set of features, convenient remote control, reasonable price. Disadvantages are the lack of a LAN port and a slot for memory cards, as well as minor firmware bugs. The device is controlled by bare Android (global version), which some consider a plus, while others consider it a minus.

The cost of the device in stores in our country starts from 4,750 rubles.

Beelink GT1 Ultimate 3/32Gb

Unlike Xiaomi, it does not shine with beauty. It shines in other ways - ergonomics, speed and excellent performance. It is noticeable that in the process of creating this media player, the tone was set not by designers, but by engineers.

The box, although small in appearance, is roomy. 3 GB of RAM and 32 GB of permanent storage are enough for a lot, and you can also connect a memory card. Network interfaces – dual-band Wi-Fi, gigabit Ethernet and Bluetooth – also work well. There are no difficulties with watching movies and playing games in 4k resolution.

Technical characteristics of Beelink GT1 Ultimate 3/32Gb

Processor: Amlogic S912, 8 cores, 2.0 GHz.
Graphics accelerator: Mali-T820 MP3.
RAM: 3 Gb DDR4.
Storage: 32 Gb.
Memory card support: micro SD, micro SDHC.
Interfaces: 2xUSB 2.0 type A, 1xHDMI 2.0a, SPDIF, Ethernet 1000 Mbit/s, Bluetooth 4.0, Wi-Fi 802.11a/b/g/n/ac.
Codecs: H.264, H.265, MPEG1, MPEG2, MPEG4, VC1.
Video formats: AVI, WMV, MKV, ISO, MOV, DAT, RM.
Audio formats: FLAC, APE.
Graphic files: PNG, JPEG, GIF.
Operating system: Android TV 0/7.1.
Technologies and services: DLNA, Miracast, AirPlay, Internet radio, Torrent TV, LOL!TV.
Power supply: external, 5.2 V.
Contents: remote control, HDMI cable.
Dimensions and weight: 96x96x16 mm.

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The strengths of Beelink GT1 Ultimate 3/32Gb are powerful hardware and stable operation under any load. And the weak ones are minor firmware bugs and lack of over-the-air updates.

The price of the device in Russian stores starts from 6,900 rubles.

Business class smart TV set-top boxes: 9,000-15,000 rubles

MINIX NEO U9-H

H is one of the best Android TV boxes for 2018. It reproduces any multimedia content in maximum resolution, provided there is a suitable TV. Movies, games, streaming in 4K - please, with HD sound. Except that the most demanding 3D games may lag at higher settings. It is also worth noting that the SoC of this device includes hardware support for DTS and Dolby Digital audio.

The network subsystem of the set-top box is uninterrupted and fast. By the way, this is one of the few models with MIMO 2x2. That is, not one Wi-Fi antenna works here for reception, as in MIMO 1×1, but two. And there are also two for transmission, which doubles the quality of communication. Just a paradise for gamers and streamers.

Specifications MINIX NEO U9-H

Processor: Amlogic S912-H, 8 cores, 2.0 GHz.
Graphics accelerator: Mali-T820MP3.
RAM: 2 Gb DDR4.
Storage: 16 Gb.
Memory card support: micro SD, micro SDHC.
Interfaces: 1xUSB 3.0 type A, 1xUSB 2.0 type B, 1xHDMI 2.0a, SPDIF, jack3.5, microphone input, Ethernet 1000 Mbps, Bluetooth 4.1, Wi-Fi 802.11a/b/g/n/ac (antenna MIMO 2x2).
Codecs: H.264, H.265, MPEG1, MPEG2, MPEG4, VC1.
Video formats: AVI, WMV, MKV, MOV, RMVB, RM, ISO, VOB, MPG, DAT, TS, FLV, ASF, M2T, TP, M2TS.
Audio formats: MP3, FLAC, WMA, APE, AAC, OGG.
Graphic files: PNG, JPG, GIF, TIFF.
Operating system: Android TV 6/7.1.
Technologies and services: DLNA, Miracast, AirPlay, Internet radio, Kodi, IPTV, Torrent Stream Controller, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, HDMI CEC (the ability to control the set-top box using the TV remote control).
Power supply: external, 5 V.
Contents: remote control, HDMI cable, OTG cable. Optional – branded gamepad.
Dimensions and weight: 96x96x16 mm.

The advantages of MINIX NEO U9-H are technology and power, which is reflected in the price. The device is not cheap, but the money spent is repaid by the bliss of using it. The disadvantages of the model include minor bugs in the firmware.

The price of MINIX NEO U9-H on the Russian market starts from 9900 rubles.

Apple TV 4K 64GB and 32GB

is the only non-Android media player in today’s review. For fans of Apple technology, this device is beyond competition. And they have only two choices: Apple TV 4K 64GB or Apple TV 4K 32 GB. The only difference is the storage capacity; otherwise the models are identical.

4k support is fully implemented in this TV box, and the only thing that poses a limitation is the lack of high-quality ultra-high definition content in sufficient quantities. We are not yet spoiled with variety, but this shortcoming, we must expect, will be leveled out in the coming years.

The rest of the device is flawless. For use in tandem with other Apple technology, you won't find a better one.

Technical specifications of Apple TV 4K 64GB and 32GB

Processor: Apple A10X Fusion, 6 cores, 2.38 GHz.
Graphics accelerator: GT7600.
RAM: 3 Gb DDR4.
Storage: 64/32 Gb.
Memory card support: no.
Interfaces: 1xHDMI 2.0a, Ethernet 1000 Mbit/s, 802.11a/b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth 5.0, Lightning.
Codecs: H.264, H.265, MPEG4, HEVC Main 10.
Video formats: MOV, MP4.
Audio formats: MP3, MP3 VBR, FLAC, WAV, APE, V1, AC3, E-AC3, Apple Lossless.
Graphic files: JPG, HEIF, GIF, TIFF.
Operating system: tvOS 11.
Technologies and services: AirPlay, Internet radio, IPTV, Dolby Vision, Apple Music, iTunes, Siri, Showtime, Netflix, HBO, Hulu.
Power supply: built-in, 5 V.
Equipment: remote control.
Dimensions and weight: 98x98x35 mm, 45 g.

Strengths of Apple TV 4K 64/32GB: exact compliance with the stated parameters, a simple but functional remote control, the ability to use an iPhone or iPad as an input device, a fast and intuitive operating system with a set of useful applications.

Disadvantages: no HDMI cable included and paid subscriptions for most multimedia services.

Prices for the set-top box start at 12,390 rubles.

Rating of Android TV set-top boxes for today

We have prepared for you a rating of the best Android TV set-top boxes in three price categories at once - from affordable budget models to top-end flagships. Thus, with the help of this article you will be able to choose a set-top box that suits your needs in 2021. Let's not delay, but rather get straight to the point.

Content:

Budget segment - up to 3,000 rubles: X96 Mini Z28 TV Box TX3 Mini
Middle segment, 3,000 - 5,500 rubles: M8S Pro Beelink GT1 Ultimate R-TV BOX S10
Premium segment - from 5,500 rubles: Minix NEO U9 H Mecool KIII Pro Zidoo X9S
Conclusion